B1654 – Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Short To Ground

The ODBII code B1654 indicates a malfunction in the driver seat recline mechanism, specifically that the circuit for reclining the seat backward is shorted to ground, which can prevent proper operation of the seat adjustment.

The severity of ODBII code B1654 is moderate.

Common Causes For: B1653 Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Short To Battery

• Shorted wiring or connectors in the seat recline circuit.
• Faulty seat recline motor.
• Damaged or frayed wiring harness.
• Corroded connectors.
• Malfunctioning seat control switch.
• Grounding issues in the circuit.

Common misdiagnosis for B1654 Seat Driver Recline Backward Circuit Short To Ground

• Faulty seat recline motor
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Malfunctioning seat position sensor
• Issues with the body control module (BCM)
• Faulty switch or control module for the seat
• Grounding issues unrelated to the seat circuit
• Problems with the power supply to the seat system

Common Troubleshooting Steps

The OBD-II code B1654 indicates a problem with the seat driver’s recline backward circuit, specifically a short to ground. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to diagnose and resolve this issue:

• Visual Inspection:
• Check the wiring harness and connectors associated with the driver’s seat recline mechanism. Look for any signs of damage, fraying, or corrosion.
• Inspect the seat motor and its connections for any physical damage.
• Check for Shorts:
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the wiring. Disconnect the seat motor and check the wires for continuity to ground. If you find continuity where there shouldn’t be any, you likely have a short in the wiring.
• Test the Seat Motor:
• With the seat motor disconnected, test the motor itself for proper operation. You can apply direct power to the motor to see if it functions correctly. If it does not work, the motor may be faulty and needs replacement.
• Inspect the Seat Control Module:
• If your vehicle has a seat control module, check for any fault codes stored in it. This module may be malfunctioning and could be causing the issue.
• Check the Power and Ground:
• Verify that the seat motor is receiving the correct voltage and ground. Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the motor connector while the seat is being operated.
• Look for Other Related Codes:
• Check for any other OBD-II codes that may be related to the seat system. Sometimes, multiple codes can provide additional context for the issue.
• Repair or Replace Damaged Components:
• If you find any damaged wiring, connectors, or a faulty motor, repair or replace those components as necessary.
• Clear Codes and Test Drive:
• After making repairs, clear the trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner and take the vehicle for a test drive to see if the code returns.
• Consult Service Manual:
• If the issue persists, consult the vehicle’s service manual for specific wiring diagrams and troubleshooting procedures related to the seat recline circuit.
• Seek Professional Help:
• If you are unable to diagnose or fix the issue, consider taking the vehicle to a qualified technician or dealership for further diagnosis. By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue related to the B1654 code.